On the first day of the Jubilee of Persons with Disabilities, Archbishop Rino Fisichella led a moving Mass at the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. In his prayer, he invoked the legacy of the late Pope Francis, urging us to find the courage to speak out and not remain silent.
By Edoardo Giribaldi
The Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls was filled with a sense of inclusivity as Archbishop Rino Fisichella, Pro-Prefect Emeritus of the Dicastery for Evangelization, celebrated Mass for the Jubilee of Persons with Disabilities.
In his inspiring homily, the Archbishop emphasized the importance of daring to bring about a revolution in our approach to integration. He spoke of the power of transforming the “them” into “us” through ordinary actions, without the need for grand gestures.
Within the embrace of a welcoming community, voices of people with disabilities and their companions echoed, highlighting the significance of not allowing anyone to remain alone.
As the organizer of the Holy Year and its particular Jubilees, Archbishop Fisichella shared the profound message of inclusivity and acceptance during the Mass at the historic Basilica.
An inclusive and accessible liturgy
The Eucharistic liturgy at the Basilica introduced innovative elements while staying true to tradition. Hymns and prayers were translated into LIS, the International Sign Language, ensuring that all could participate fully in the sacred ceremony.
Archbishop Fisichella’s prayer for the seeds of Pope Francis’ message of mercy and inclusion to take root and flourish within the Church set the tone for the service.
During his homily, the Archbishop drew parallels to the Acts of the Apostles, emphasizing the importance of restoring autonomy, dignity, and strength to those in need. He encouraged the community to find the courage not to remain silent in the face of injustice.
Integrating into everyday life
Cristina Borlotti, a dedicated advocate for inclusion, shared her vision of creating a culture of acceptance within daily contexts. She stressed the importance of language in building bridges and changing perceptions.
Ms. Borlotti’s commitment to sowing inclusion and changing the narrative from “the disabled” to “persons with disabilities” reflects a broader movement towards a more inclusive society.
The Pope’s “cultural revolution”
At a conference titled “We: Pilgrims of Hope,” Marta Russo spoke about Pope Francis’ call for a cultural revolution regarding people with disabilities. She urged young people to carry forward this message of inclusivity and justice.
Luca, a young participant in the Jubilee, shared his dream of inspiring autonomy, dignity, and happiness for others with disabilities. His journey to Rome symbolized progress towards a more inclusive world.
Other events of the Jubilee
The Jubilee of Persons with Disabilities kicked off with a pilgrimage to the Holy Door and a Sacrament of Reconciliation at the Church of St. John Baptist of the Florentines. The program continues with a catechesis by Archbishop Fisichella in St. Peter’s Square and a festive gathering at Castel Sant’Angelo.
The road connecting St. Peter’s Square with Castel Sant’Angelo will be filled with food stands and testimonies celebrating the strength and beauty of life lived in fragility.
